Despite the fact that advertisements continue to spew sympathetic platitudes over the impact consumers face with the troubled economy, many companies simply aren’t putting their money where there mouth is.

Costco Wholesale is clearly one of these.

Although the company’s website purports it provides “high quality products at substantially lower prices,” many in dire need of the savings like these are shut out, specifically, New Yorkers on food stamps.

The Costco on Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City is within walking distance of three large housing projects, which are home to nearly 30,000 people, many of whom take advantage of the food stamp program.

With access to Costco’s deep discounts, these people would have the opportunity to get more for their money in addition to gaining an ability to choose from healthier selections.

The largest wholesaler in the world’s refusal to work with the public is also unfortunate in light of the fact that embracing the food stamp program is at no cost to the corporation. In fact, the stores would actually benefit with an increase in sales from uncovered purchases made by food stamp shoppers.

It is common knowledge that the pittance of $28 a week allotted by the food stamp program isn’t enough to survive on. How in good conscience can a company like Costco refuse to allow the needy public, including a disproportionate amount of children, elderly and the disabled, to have a bit more at no extra cost to the store?